Most job fairs now have websites that showcase participating employers. Use the websites to identify which companies that you want to approach.

You should also gather information about these employers from the site so you will be prepared to converse knowledgeably about the company with its representatives. 

Please take a moment to stop in to our Job Seeker Support. Laptops will be set-up with internet access and resume printing capability.  Job Seeker Support has useful tools to assist with gathering information about companies and employment opportunities. Volunteers will be available to support job seekers during The Fair.

How do you apply?  Many companies today have an online application process. Please take advantage of the tools available at Job Seeker Support the day of The Fair. 

Don’t forget temporary hiring agencies.  Many times large employers have temp agencies do all of their hiring.  Speak with the temp agencies at the fair to find out which companies they represent or what openings they are hiring for.

First impressions are lasting ones, so treat the career fairs that you are attending like a job interview. Come dressed for success in clean and conservative attire, with a winning attitude, and ready to answer probing questions.

Periodically attend these events even when you are not necessarily looking for a job to see what opportunities are out there, and to gain a perspective on where you fit in the job marketplace.

Be prepared by bringing the following: a pen, note pad and stack of resumes. You should also bring a portfolio or carryall that has easily accessible storage areas. Wear comfortable, professional-looking shoes designed for standing long periods of time.  Some businesses conduct on-site interviews.  Bring two forms of ID in case you are offered employment.  

Your resume should be scannable, short and professional on white paper that is free of graphics, photographs or fancy print styles, but also containing larger margins for interviewer notes.

Arrive early to avoid having to stand in long lines, give yourself time to survey the layout of the fair, and determine the order that you plan to visit with company representatives. Large companies with high profiles will have the longest lines, so if some are on your list, you should visit them first.

Network with other job seekers. Talk to others while you are standing in line to exchange job-hunting ideas, provide support, and even obtain leads.

Be prepared to assertively introduce yourself, giving your best handshake, showing enthusiasm and making eye contact with the interviewer. Be concise, polite and direct, as you only have brief period of time to obtain the information that you need and to make an impression.

Recruiters will want you to be prepared to talk about your career objectives, strengths, willingness to relocate, interests, relevant skills, the kind of job you are looking for, why you want to work for their organization, and why you would be an asset. Be prepared to answer commonly asked questions and tailor them to the company’s needs.

Business representatives at the Job Fair may offer you an interview on site or arrange one for a later date.   Remember to ask what your next steps are and let them know you are ready, willing and able to participate in second interview or to contact them after The Fair.  

If a recruiter is not accepting resumes, find out about their application process.

Finding out about position needs, company culture and diversity. These questions will help you figure out if the company is a good match for you. Use the information that you obtain from your company research, and the questions that you ask to sell your skills that address their needs.

After talking to each recruiter, use the back of his or her business card to record notes about the encounter to help you remember important details and follow-up instructions. If no card is available, record their contact information and your comments in your notepad .

Say Thank You and Follow up as soon as possible with thank you notes that address the companies’ hiring needs, your qualifications, and express your desire for a second interview.